Articles on Community

  • Growing Through Crossing the Threshold

    When I began Crossing the Threshold two years ago, two things were apparent: I lacked a vital spiritual life and was overwhelmed by work. The two are interrelated of course and of serious concern for a pastor. My relatively new ministry at a Los Angeles protestant cathedral posed challenges as unique as that string of…

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  • There is a Crack in Everything

    Ring the bells that still can ringForget your perfect offering.There is a crack, a crack in everything.That’s how the light gets in. -Leonard Cohen These words are the refrain from Leonard Cohen’s famous song Anthem, published in 1992. I may be one of few people in my age range who does not remember this song…

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  • A Theme Psalm for this Lent

    Psalm 25(from Psalms for Praying: An Invitation to Wholeness by Nan C. Merrill) To You, O Love, I lift up my soul!O Heart within my heart, in You I place my trust. Let me not feel unworthy; let not fear rule over me. Yes! May all who open their hearts savor You and bless the…

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  • Wasting Time with God

    Wasting Time with God

    As a former energizer bunny with a calendar in my head, I’ve always been physically and mentally doing something. So, attending the Group Spiritual Direction Workshop three different times – both as a participant and assistant facilitator – was life-changing for me. Each weekend during these programs gave me the opportunity to practice the art…

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  • Going Deeper: A Spiritual Respite When Needed the Most

    When a last-minute opportunity to attend the Going Deeper: Clergy Spiritual Life and Leadership program presented itself to me in the summer of 2022, I could only say “Yes, how can I make this work?” I’d known for some time that my spiritual self-care as a pastor needed a boost. In that moment of decision,…

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  • Crossing The Threshold: Revelation of an Amazing Spiritual Adventure

    In my early years, the word “Revelation”– on the cover of the James Redfield book, The Nine Revelations (The Celestine Prophecy)— caught my attention. When the book came out in the 1990’s, it was a huge hit as the great spiritual adventure that conquered millions of readers around the world. Redfield weaves a tale about…

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Mission

Our mission is to nurture contemplative living and leadership.

Vision

In 2025, Shalem will be a dynamic and inclusive community, empowered by the Spirit, where seekers engage in transformation of themselves, their communities, and the world through spiritual growth, deep connection, and courageous action.

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